Jerry Wayne Snider, Sr.

Jerry Wayne Snider Sr. was a man of unwavering faith and unconditional love. Born on February 6, 1948, in Lufkin, Texas, to Reverend D.R. and Ruby Snider, Jerry's life was shaped by his love of God and his love of family. On February 3, 2025, just three days shy of his 77th birthday, he passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the family he cherished.

Jerry's early years in East Texas were filled with the love of a large extended family and the guiding presence of his parents, who instilled in him a deep trust in God. That faith would be tested early in life. As a child, Jerry battled both rheumatic fever, which weakened his heart, and polio, leaving him unable to walk. Doctors gave him little hope, predicting he wouldn't live past 12. But his father often reminded him, "Remember the sparrow-God is in control." And God was. Miraculously, Jerry was healed. His legs grew equal in length, and he walked-a testimony to the power of prayer that he carried with him for the rest of his life.

As a teenager, Jerry's journey took him to Elton, Louisiana, when his parents became pastors of Elton Pentecostal Church. There, he met the love of his life, Connie Savant. They were just 14 years old when their story began, and from that moment on, their lives were intertwined. High school sweethearts, they married on June 2, 1967, shortly after graduating. Their love story has spanned 57 beautiful years-a lifetime of partnership, laughter, and faith.

Jerry and Connie first settled in Palestine, Texas, where they welcomed their firstborn, Jerry Jr. in 1968. A year later, they moved to Lake Charles, Louisiana, and in September of 1969, they walked into Apostolic Temple for the first time. It became their church home and was a place where Jerry found purpose as a Sunday School teacher, using his natural gift for storytelling to share the gospel. His stories weren't just words-they were experiences, lessons, and moments of connection.

In 1971, Jerry began his career with Blue Cross Blue Shield, where he worked for over four decades. He wasn't just a salesman-he was a leader, mentor, and friend. Rising to the role of Regional Director, Jerry had a unique ability to see potential in people, often giving chances to those others might overlook. His kindness and generosity in the workplace reflected the same values he lived out in his personal life.

Beyond work, Jerry had a deep love for the outdoors. He found joy in hunting with his parents, brother, and nephews, fishing at the family cabin on Lake Murvaul, and shrimping on Big Lake. But no matter where he went, home was always his greatest treasure. Jerry and Connie built a home that was more than walls and a roof-it was a haven, a gathering place, a space where family and friends were always welcome. If you walked through the door, you were greeted with warmth, an invitation to sit, and a very important question: "Would you like some coffee?"

His greatest joy, however, was his family. Jerry adored his children-Jerry Jr., Lesa, and Julie-and poured love, wisdom, and laughter into their lives. But nothing delighted him quite like being "Pawpaw." Whether he was chauffeuring grandkids to school, keeping them entertained with his endless stories, or making his famous Coke floats, his love for them was evident in every moment. He loved taking them on unforgettable summer vacations, always the one to bring laughter and excitement to every trip. Whether it was exploring new places, riding every ride, or simply making memories, he was always up for anything-they set the plans, and he made them happen. In his final years, his great-grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy. His oldest great-granddaughter, Blair, shared a special bond with him (because she was his favorite). He taught her the books of the Bible and The Lord's Prayer, which they would recite every day before school.

At home, his faith remained his constant companion. In the quiet moments, he could be found in his recliner, reading his Bible or listening to the Bible app, letting the words of scripture fill the room and his heart. You could often find one of his great-grandchildren curled up on his lap, taking a nap or listening to him tell a story.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Savant Snider of Moss Bluff; his mother-in-law, Helen Savant of Kinder, LA; and his three children: Jerry Snider Jr. (Hope) of Lake Charles, LA, Lesa Delaunais (Stephan) of Denham Springs, LA, and Julie LeBert (Jason) of Moss Bluff, LA. He was a proud grandfather to Morgan LaLande (Parry) of Moss Bluff, Haley Delaunais (fiancé Shawn Peterson) of Phoenix, AZ, Zachary Delaunais of Lake Charles, LA, Allison Snider of New Orleans, LA, Sophia Snider of Lake Charles, LA, and London LeBert of Lake Charles, LA. His three precious great-grandchildren-Blair Andreas, Trey LaLande, and Rory LaLande-were among his greatest blessings in his final years. He is also survived by his brother, Donald Snider (Sherry) of Moss Bluff, LA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Reverend D.R. and Ruby Snider, and his brothers, Terry and Bobby Snider.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the wonderful nurses at Heart of Hospice, Anne Marie and Heather, for their compassionate care during this time.

Though Jerry has left this world, his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. His faith, his kindness, and his love for his family will continue to inspire generations to come. And just as his father once reminded him, we too will remember the sparrow, knowing that Jerry's life was always in the hands of a loving God.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 7:00 PM on Monday, February 10, 2025 at the Apostolic Temple Pentecostal Church. Pastor Ricky Treece, along with several others, will officiate. Visitation will begin in the church from 4:00 PM until the start of the service. Burial will follow on Tuesday at 10:00 AM in Green Oaks Cemetery in Kinder under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home.